Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
Mildred “Millie” Marie Brace, of The Dalles, Ore., passed away on April 20, 2015 at the age of 84.
Born on June 21, 1930 in Lincoln, Ark., she is preceded in death by her father James Elmer Pennel, mother Lena Byxbe, stepfather Verne Byxbe, brother Kenneth Wilson, sister Maxine Litton, granddaughter Tammie Gibson, great grandsons Forest Brace and Jayce Bang.
Millie is survived by her husband of 67 years Clare Brace, of the Dalles. Sisters Alice Sandburgb of Eugene, Ore., and Virginia Phillips of The Dalles. Her children Hank Brace, Gary Brace and Paul Brace of The Dalles, and Deena Brace of Portland, Ore., Debbie Kaps and husband Ron, Kalama, Wash. Grandchildren Dan and Jody Brace, Todd Hinzman, Melodie and Dereck Scholz, Lori and Kevin Bang, Tiffany Brace, Shane Brace, Darla Sweet, Cassidy Gaige and Dakota Green. Great grandchildren Josie, Brandi, Jace, Allie, Gage, Casey, Kayden, Sadie, Jezlena, Kylea, Lexi and Landen. In addition to Millie’s family she leaves behind many relatives, nieces, nephews and numerous friends, touching many hearts with her gentle caring way.
A member of the Covenant Christian community, Millie was one of God’s children. Her faith brought her great comfort and carried her through the end.
She was a most wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother. When Millie’s children were young, growing up in the small town of Rowena, she and her husband Clare always had a “Welcome All” open door policy in their family home. Often accommodating the neighborhood kids and friends alike. She had an exceptional gift of making everyone she met feel special.
Millie was a true pioneer woman and a great homemaker, often creating something from nothing, cooking from scratch, canning, sewing, and always finding time in between for her children.
In 1968 Millie and Clare sold their home in Rowena to move to Bellingham, Wash. They purchased their first motel and found success in the motel business as owner operators for many years to follow.
After returning to their hometown of The Dalles several years later, Millie ventured out and acquired her real estate license, bringing her a sense of independence and making many friends and acquaintances throughout her career.
In her later years Millie would find her greatest comfort within her family home. With an ongoing flow of celebrations, and holidays where family and friends would gather, children and grandchildren are where she found her greatest joy.
May she rest in peace and may your fond memories of her forever linger in your heart.
For those of you that would like to make a contribution in Millie’s memory please consider Doernbecher’s Children’s Hospital Foundation, 1121 SW Salmon St #200, Portland, OR 97205. Attn. Brett. (503) 228-1730.
No service arrangements are in place at this time.
To plant a tree in memory of Mildred Brace as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
